Nigerians were shocked and thrown into mourning over the death of famous singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu.
Onwenu died on Tuesday night at Reddington Hospital in Lagos after collapsing during the 80th birthday party of Emzor Pharmaceuticals CEO, Mrs Stella Okoli, where she performed.
Many dignitaries attended the high-class event, including the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, Peter Obi, who took to his X account on Wednesday to explain how physicians tried to save the legendary musician and campaigner.
Speaking on Onwenu’s last moments, Obi wrote, “Yesterday provided a very devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory. I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu, performed a couple of her songs, ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love, Keep Us Together’.
“It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed and was rushed to the hospital.
“I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life, doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone.
“Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle. My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.”
On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu, his wife Oluremi, governors, the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, fans, and many more mourned the passing of Onwenu.
Her children announced her death on Wednesday, giving details of her final moments.
“It is with heavy hearts that my brother and I wish to announce the passing of our mother, the much loved Onyeka Onwenu,” her children wrote in a statement on Wednesday.
“She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life—sadly, she passed. She passed away last night, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria,” the statement added.
Born in 1952 in Obosi, Anambra State, she released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981 and has since released several albums and singles, including her hit song “One Love.”
Onwenu was awarded the National Honours of the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
